Free vascularized groin fat flap in hypoplasia and hemiatrophy of the face (a three years observation).

Two female patients with facial malformation are presented: one with microsomia (17 years old) and the other (35 years old) with a very severe form of Rhomberg-Parry facial hemiatrophy. The defect in one side of the face was augmented in both cases by means of a free inguinal fat flap connected to the local vascular system with microvascular anastomoses. After a follow up of three years (first patient) and 18 months (second patient) no sign of resorption could be observed and the fat shows a normal histological structure. The arterial flow is proved with the Doppler flowmeter and in one patient with arteriography. The operative technique is described, the advantages and disadvantages in contrast to other procedures are discussed.